So far I am on schedule with my
plan. I adopted the steps for conducting
action research as designed in the text “Examining
What We Do To Improve OPur Schools: 8
Steps from Analysis to Action” by authors Sandra Harris, Stacey Edmondson,
and Julie Combs (2010). Setting the foundation forms the basis for
all improvement activity. The need for action research for the topic: “The advantages of collaboration and
mentoring programs that emphasize collegial support” has been identified as a
both a concern and a need for my campus by my site supervisor and I. We have a shared vision that is rooted and
grounded in helping take us to a new place, and this vision is foundational
before genuine school improvement can occur.
The analysis of data is a
critical component of examining the work of my research action plan and
improving my school. In analyzing the
data for improving student achievement through collaboration and mentoring programs,
I reviewed our school test score reports which are received regularly. As it relates to teacher retention, I also
analyzed data on teacher satisfaction levels with administrative support which
provided valuable data about our school’s social health. The analysis of data afforded us with the
opportunity to assign veteran teachers to new teachers. These teachers worked together to develop a
similar lesson plan for a particular topic and the lesson was taught at the
same time and at the same pace.
Data is essential in understanding
the work in schools and identifying the outcomes. In some situations, data does not provide all
the answers because gaps in information remain and these gaps might be critical
to understanding the complete situation and making informed decisions. In order to develop a deeper understanding,
my action research project employed a variety of techniques such as interviews,
focus groups, observations, and open-ended questionnaires or surveys.
Although much as been done to
implement my action research project, it remains a work in progress. We are currently in the process of exploring
programmatic patterns to promote a more just and equitable understanding. In the near future we will sit together as a
group to determine direction, address action research questions, monitor
progress and assess achievement. The
team will also take action for school improvement by using appropriate steps
and templates to provide guidance. Finally,
we will implement tools of action research to sustain improvement.
